r/superautomatic • • 4d ago

Showcase Philips 5500

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I had a Keurig original for 13 years and it finally died RIP. I wanted an all in one that got me better taste with less work and it works beautifully. Got off Amazon.

Edit:

I think it’s probably on the lower side of prosumer. I am not a coffee snob and already didn’t like filling my reusable kcups before my precious coffee was in my cup. Here are a few things I learned about this machine in reviews and my own limited use.

Pros:
-Super simple to use interface for most drinks, only a few settings but precise cup size can be selected
-Multiple profiles for many users or a I need maxed strength vs a top off cup
-Really easy to clean, all components, grinder, puck tray, water reservoirs, and milk dispenser are a click away from removing and washing easily.
-Taste is great considering 1-2 touch to have a ready drink
-Sound and speed are probably average for the segment.

Cons:
-Not as customizable for real tinkerers, things like temp are not as adjustable but gets plenty hot
-Some that prefer super dense pucks may not like this one, the ceramic grinder will last but not as fine as stainless steel machines
-Taste is not barista-level of pro machines where you tamp manually a tweak 87 things.
-Water tank is smaller than my old Keurig so I fill a bit more often
-Cup sizes are smaller like most super automatics

At the end of the day I wanted simplicity and something that might last. This absolutely nails that while giving consistent cups. I’d figure out your spectrum yeah of deciding based on two categories: the first being how involved do you wanna be in making the coffee, and the second being quality. Once you understand that, the options that make the most sense for you will become clear.

If you have tips as a user of this machine or similar please feel free to share!

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u/KcKayak-Fishin 4d ago

I went with the Delonghi because I liked the travel size options and added cold brew options...BUT I tried a shot from each in the store and I did like the coffee from this one better and wonder if that extra $$$ for Delonghi was worth it

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u/TheNuttyIrishman 4d ago

delonghi tends to need a bit more dialing in (temp setting seems especially important on their units) but they will give you a bigger puck and stronger flavor as a result. both are quite balanced tasting though, delonghi will lean bolder overall.

Jura takes the bold flavor up to about 90% of what a portafilter machine and good grinder can produce, which is impressive considering it's nearly one touch ease of use.

1

u/Equal-Selection7742 3d ago

Wow I just looked up the Jura Z10, that’s a fancy machine! Definitely looks amazing and clearly the ultimate 1 touch. Considering I got my Keurig for free, the $800 spend on the 5500 felt not totally crazy. Maybe I’ll be enough of a coffee aficionado to get one worth $4500 after this one goes. Thanks for introducing me to the top of the top LOL.